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International SOS offers Advice to Travellers on World Diabetes Day: Pack Your Own Medication - and Watch Out for Counterfeit Drugs

International SOS marks World Diabetes Day on 14 November by issuing guidance to international travellers on how to plan and prepare for overseas trips.

Diabetes affects 6% of the worlds population. The World Health Organisation says diabetes is a major threat to global public health.

Dr Doug Quarry, Regional Medical Director at International SOS said:

There is a significant amount of counterfeit medication being sold, particularly in developing countries. In some cases 20-30% of pharmaceuticals are not genuine.

Add to this the fact that many medications used to treat diabetes - especially newer drugs available in developed nations - may not be available at a travellers destination and you have one obvious solution: Plan well in advance.

Take plenty of your own medications to avoid taking the risk of trying to buy fresh supplies abroad. You might not find what you need - or you might find what you buy is fake and either useless or even dangerous.

Diabetes is a condition where the amount of sugar in your blood is too high. This is because the body either does not make enough insulin, or can’t use it as well as it should.

Travellers and expatriates with diabetes - points to remember :

-- Ensure your diabetes is stable and controlled before your trip.

-- Take a good supply of your regular medication. Allow for possible delays and changes to your itinerary and minimise stopovers as much as possible.

-- Be aware your medication may not be available in all countries.

-- In some countries, counterfeit medication is common, so avoid having to go to a pharmacy where possible.

View the video online here

About International SOS (www.internationalsos.com)

International SOS is the worlds leading medical and travel security risk services Company. We care for clients across the globe, from more than 700 locations in 76 countries.

Our expertise is unique: More than 10,000 employees are led by 1,200 physicians and 200 security specialists. Teams work night and day to protect our members.

We have pioneered a range of preventative programs and offer an unparalleled response to emergencies. We are passionate about helping clients put ‘Duty of Care’ into practice. With us multinational corporate clients, governments and NGOs can mitigate risks for their people working remotely or overseas.